There was no gentle introduction for Janet at the Haytor Heller, as she took on one of Dartmoor’s tough off-road challenges on Saturday 5 September.
Perfect weather provided a lovely backdrop for the evening race, but the conditions did not make the course itself any easier. With steep climbs, rugged moorland and plenty of undulation, it was a demanding outing in Carn Runners colours.
A tough six miles on Dartmoor
Organised by Teignbridge Trotters, the Haytor Heller starts below the distinctive Haytor Rock. The approximately six-mile route follows a single off-road loop across open moorland, with woodland sections, a stream crossing and several steep ascents and descents along the way.
The opening climb gives runners an immediate taste of what lies ahead. From there, the course continues across the exposed Dartmoor landscape before returning towards Haytor Rock and finishing with a much quicker downhill stretch.
It is a compact race by distance, but certainly not an easy one. The varied terrain and relentless hills make it the sort of challenge where effort matters far more than the number of miles shown on the watch.
Another warm welcome from Teignbridge Trotters
The race was wonderfully organised once again by Teignbridge Trotters, who marked the event’s 40th year in 2026. Their familiar post-race barbecue and selection of cakes gave runners a welcome chance to refuel after their efforts on the moor.
Janet is no stranger to the club’s events, having previously represented Carn Runners at the Teignbridge Trotters’ Templer Ten. The Haytor Heller, however, presented a very different test, replacing the mixed paths and lanes of the Templer Ten with steep, rugged and completely off-road terrain.
It was another tough Devon race for Janet and another appearance for the yellow and blue beyond Cornwall. Well done, Janet, on taking on those Dartmoor hills!
